Grievance Procedures

The University of Tampa has adopted the following internal procedure to provide resolution of any complaint alleging discrimination based on a disability as described by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Many complaints can be resolved through discussion between the parties involved. Though no one is required to individually approach the other party, this is a good first step to resolving the problem. Should the student be unable to reconcile the complaint at this point, help by means of mediation between the student and the respondent should be sought through the Office of Student Disability Services. The associate director of Academic Excellence Programs will first seek to informally resolve the issue. Should either party involved be dissatisfied with that effort, then the student may meet with the director. If the issue remains unsatisfactory, the student may request to meet with the dean of Academic Services. A formal letter of complaint detailing the alleged discriminatory action should be filed in the dean of Academic Services office. All correspondence, as well as any other pertinent information, will then be reviewed by the dean of Academic Services. If she so chooses, the dean may convene a meeting of all parties involved. The dean will have the final say concerning the outcome of the complaint. It is imperative that confidentiality be maintained by all parties involved in the grievance.

Should a student exercise his or her right to file with a governmental agency or file a court action, the dean of Academic Services should be notified. The University reserves the right to terminate the internal grievance process, if it is so notified.